Going Wild

About the Book

Spider-Man meets Animorphs in this thrilling new middle grade series from Lisa McMann, New York Times bestselling author of the Unwanteds series. Newbery Medal–winning author Katherine Applegate calls Going Wild “gripping, action-packed, and filled with humor and heart.”

Charlie Wilde knew her life would change forever when her family moved from the city of Chicago to the suburbs of Arizona…and that was before she found the bracelet. After putting it on, she notices odd things start to happen. Suddenly Charlie seems to have the speed of a cheetah and the strength of an elephant—and that’s just the beginning. She would be thrilled about her transformation if she had any idea how to use the device or control her amazing powers. So Charlie is forced to put her trust in new friends to help her uncover the surprising truth behind the mysterious bracelet.

Going Wild is perfect for fans of Rick Riordan, Brandon Mull, and Ridley Pearson looking for a new twist on their middle grade adventures. This series blends science fiction with the animal kingdom, highlighting some of the incredible feats that animals can achieve, which might seem possible only in comic books but are actually completely true.

Educator and Librarian Resources

Critical Praise

“The first book of a gripping, can’t-put-down trilogy. Once again, Lisa McMann demonstrates her remarkable ability to create action-packed fantasies filled with humor and heart. Kids will go wild for Going Wild!” —Katherine Applegate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Newbery Medal winner The One and Only Ivan

“Going Wild has it all—drama, soccer, and superpowers, with a heroine who is super, sure, but also incredibly real and down-to-earth. As much as readers will be amazed by what Charlie can do, they’ll cheer for her because she’s the superhero next door.” —Gordon Korman, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Masterminds series, Ungifted, and Slacker

“Like no other writer, Lisa McMann creates real, lovable characters and then yanks their lives inside out with nail-biting suspense, a shocker at every turn, and stakes that climb to crazy, impossible heights. I hope it’s not rude to beg for the sequel, because the line begins here.” —Peter Lerangis, New York Times bestselling author of the Seven Wonders series

“Filled with action, adventure, and a good dollop of wish fulfillment, McMann’s superhero origin story should capture the imagination of any reader who wonders what it would be like to be more than just an average kid.” —Publishers Weekly

“A fast-paced adventure with a very likable heroine. Fans of Rick Riordan and Brandon Mull will not be disappointed.” —School Library Journal

“Blending action, fantasy, and sci-fi with tween angst, this is poised to be a hit with the legions of fans of the Unwanteds series.” —ALA Booklist

Praise for THE UNWANTEDS: “Imagination runs wild in this creative adventure.” —Brandon Mull, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Fablehaven series and Spirit Animals #1: Wild Born

“The Hunger Games meets Harry Potter...[The Unwanteds] is sure to be a double hit.” —Kirkus Reviews